Our Summary

This paper discusses the importance of laparoscopic surgery skills in performing robot-assisted surgeries (RAS). In Japan, young urologists often get the opportunity to learn these skills by assisting in RAS. The authors believe that this hands-on experience improves the quality of RAS and enhances their own abilities. However, they note that these opportunities are becoming less common with the increasing prevalence of RAS. They suggest that practicing surgery on cadavers could be a valuable alternative, as it could boost motivation, deepen understanding of surgical procedures, and help young urologists develop their surgical skills.

FAQs

  1. How does laparoscopic surgery skills impact the performance of robot-assisted surgeries?
  2. Why are opportunities for young urologists to assist in RAS becoming less common in Japan?
  3. How could practicing surgery on cadavers benefit young urologists in developing their surgical skills?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the medical team, such as fasting before the procedure and stopping certain medications as advised. This will help reduce the risk of complications during surgery and promote a successful recovery. Additionally, it is important to communicate openly with the medical team about any concerns or questions you may have before undergoing laparoscopic surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic surgery include those with conditions such as:

  1. Gallstones
  2. Endometriosis
  3. Hernias
  4. Uterine fibroids
  5. Ovarian cysts
  6. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  7. Appendicitis
  8. Colorectal cancer
  9. Kidney disorders
  10. Pancreatic disorders

Laparoscopic surgery is generally recommended for patients who are looking for a minimally invasive approach to their condition, as it offers benefits such as shorter recovery times, less scarring, and reduced risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery. However, the suitability of laparoscopic surgery for an individual patient will depend on their specific medical history and condition, so it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with a surgeon to discuss the need for surgery and potential risks and benefits.
  2. Pre-operative appointments for blood tests, imaging scans, and other necessary tests.
  3. Pre-operative instructions on fasting, medications to avoid, and other preparations for the surgery.
  4. Signing consent forms and discussing anesthesia options.
  5. Arriving at the hospital or surgical center on the day of the surgery.

After laparoscopic surgery:

  1. Waking up in the recovery room after the surgery.
  2. Monitoring by medical staff for any immediate post-operative complications.
  3. Gradual reintroduction of food and fluids as tolerated.
  4. Pain management and instructions on how to care for incision sites.
  5. Discharge from the hospital or surgical center with post-operative instructions on wound care, medication, and follow-up appointments.
  6. Recovery period at home with gradual return to normal activities under the guidance of the surgeon.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic surgery?
  2. How long will the recovery process be after laparoscopic surgery?
  3. Will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  4. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic surgery?
  5. What is the success rate of laparoscopic surgery for my specific condition?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments to laparoscopic surgery that I should consider?
  7. How will you monitor my progress and ensure that the surgery was successful?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  9. How soon after the surgery can I return to my normal activities?
  10. Are there any specific post-operative instructions I should follow to ensure a successful recovery?

Reference

Authors: Sasaki Y, Takahashi M, Shiozaki K, Hori K, Kadoriku F, Daizumoto K, Tomida R, Ueno Y, Kusuhara Y, Fukawa T, Yamaguchi K, Yamamoto Y, Tomita K, Sairyo K, Kanayama H. Journal: Asian J Endosc Surg. 2024 Jan;17(1):e13254. doi: 10.1111/ases.13254. Epub 2023 Oct 14. PMID: 37837342